The Art of Asian Table Settings



by Cassia Ann Jordan


Table setting is a fine art that exists in various forms, depending on the culture of where you come from. Different societies set their tables and present their foods in different ways. Some religions, such as Judaism and Islam, have specific dietary laws that determine the foods that are served and even which foods can be eaten together. Other societies have traditions based around the colors that are used at the table.

In Asian culture, there are some very beautiful kinds of table settings. Let's explore some of them and take a look at the customs and traditions associated with them.

In Korea, meals are traditionally a rather serious time, as talking is not encouraged at the dinner table. The classic Korean table setting consists of rice, soup, a spoon, and chopsticks going from left to right, with lots of small bowls of side dishes and stews placed in the center for general consumption. The spoon is for soup, stew, and rice, while the chopsticks are used for more dry foods, but both implements are not used at the same time. The bowl is not held during eating, and the traditional custom was always to share a plate as this was thought to promote the closeness of a relationship. However, this custom, like that of not speaking during meals has become more lax in modern times.

One of the most famous Asian table settings includes the Japanese table settings. At first glance, the classic Japanese setting may look so much alike the Korean table setting that was mentioned above. The use of small intricately designed bowls is present and chopsticks are used here as well. What differs here is the food, as Japanese cuisine loves their seafood. As we all know, when you say Japanese table settings, one would think of the low tables or from floor trays and the serving of Saki. Today, however this has changed and most people use western-style tables too. If you want to go for a more classic setting, make sure that the table will consist of five plates being put in front of the diner: bowls for rice and soup are placed closest to you with rice on the left and soup on the right. Then the other three plates, which are somewhat behind, are for three other side dishes.

Chinese The Chinese table is colorful and yet elegant. Colors of table cloth should include bright red and gold. You can use bowls and plates that are colored black to accentuate the red table cloth; the centerpiece can be the mini tea set which you can use later after the meal. In the Chinese tradition, the dining table is both lively and noisy; people laugh and have a great time while eating. They take time in the table and enjoy. Chinese dishes can be a little spicy and sweet and don't forget the tea after each meal.

In Chinese lore, the way that the chopsticks are held and used is very important and strict rules govern the Chinese dining table. Food is eaten at a round or square table, with the most important person sitting furthest away from the door. Unlike the Korean tradition, the Chinese dinner table is fairly noisy, with animated discussions taking place there.




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